Spotlights

For three years in a row, an Otterbein graduate nursing student has been elected president of the student board of the Ohio State Association of Nurse Anesthetists (OSANA). Brandon Maiden takes over the position from his predecessors, Adam Longberry and Patrick Clinton, both Otterbein nurse anesthesia graduates and past presidents of the OSANA Student Board.

Brian Garrett, DNP, CRNA, director of Otterbein’s nurse anesthesia program, says Otterbein University/Grant Medical Center program students are an ideal choice to lead the organization.

"A cornerstone of the nurse anesthesia program is the development of leaders and excellent clinicians. From the very first day in our program, students are provided behavioral skills training with an emphasis on involvement in professional activities at the state and national level. Our students are given the tools to stand out in our profession,” he said.

Maiden agrees that the Otterbein University/Grant Medical Center nurse anesthesia program is one of the best programs in Ohio and arguably the country.

“Our faculty prepare us not only to be successful in the clinical setting, but also give us the tools necessary to be a well-rounded professional,” said Maiden. “We spend countless hours discussing emotional intelligence, how to be an effective leader and the business of anesthesia.”

Maiden faces crucial legislation for Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetists (CRNA) as he takes on his new role. Prior to 2015, legislators assumed CRNAs just assisted anesthesiologists in the operating room. Ohio now has a new general assembly and education regarding a CRNA’s scope of practice. Increasing the communication and relationships between all Ohio nurse anesthesia programs is next on his list, along with implementing a student mentoring program to foster the leadership growth of Student Registered Nurse Anesthetists.

“As health care professionals we have two choices: we can implement the changes others make or get involved and have a voice at the proverbial table of change. I prefer the latter,” Maiden explained, outlining his future goals. “The first and most important goal is to increase student involvement in OSANA and our legislative efforts. It’s paramount to our success in the future.”